Parafed Auckland

PROVIDING SPORTING AND RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR PEOPLE WITH PHYSICAL DISABILITIES.

Parafed Auckland – Para Sport & Recreations New Zealand’s oldest and largest disability sport organization. We lead a network of 15 sports clubs and activity providers catering for 300+ members. We are the lead organization for all physical disability sport in Auckland, providing pathways and opportunities for beginners, all the way through to Paralympic Champions! Our parent body is Paralympics NZ, and we collaborate with them and many others in the sporting and disability sectors to achieve our Vision and Mission.

I first joined Parafed Auckland in 1978, a year after my injury. We had a wonderful time competing in the Parafed Nationals ever Easter. Often we were billeted at schools and camps, the five Parafed regions ready to do battle. It was a great points system so that a small region like Otago-Southland could beat a large region like Auckland. The cup was highly sort after. Back then, you played a range of sports from track and field to indoor bowls. Some of our most exciting wheelchair rugby games were against Central North Island when rugby was part of the Nationals. These games would go into multiple overtime with the result often decided by 1 point.

Over the years I think I’ve held every post except Treasurer, as everyone knows – I’m crap at finances and definitely a spender not a saver! In 2015 we appointed a full time CEO, Hamish Meacheam, and the organization has flourished. Hamish has stepped down and we welcome a new CEO Tom Smith, and with that I will step down as Chairperson.

Please see Parafed’s website for more information http://www.parafedauckland.co.nz/